I often think of the account of Cornelius when this subject is discussed.
Quote:
| Acts 10:1-8 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of what was called the Italian Regiment, 2 a devout man and one who feared God with all his household, who gave alms generously to the people, and prayed to God always. 3 About the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God coming in and saying to him, "Cornelius!" 4 And when he observed him, he was afraid, and said, "What is it, lord?" So he said to him, "Your prayers and your alms have come up for a memorial before God. 5 "Now send men to Joppa, and send for Simon whose surname is Peter. 6 "He is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea. He will tell you what you must do." 7 And when the angel who spoke to him had departed, Cornelius called two of his household servants and a devout soldier from among those who waited on him continually. 8 So when he had explained all these things to them, he sent them to Joppa.
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God was under no obligation to hear Cornelius' prayer, but it pleased God to do so. Later in the chapter, upon hearing the gospel from the mouth of Peter, Cornelius believed and was gloriously saved.
Whether it is an unbelieving child or adult, God is not obligated to hear their prayer; but if it pleases Him to do so, His ear can be attentive to their prayer.